Container gardening planters come in many styles and colors. Before investing in containers, a gardener must consider what they most value in them. Priorities can vary from one gardener to the next. The priority list will guide you to your final decision. It could be the appearance, weight, price, maintenance ease, climate or placement of potted plants that determines the value. We’ll walk you through all the available materials and discuss the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision about which container gardening planters will best suit your needs.
Best Pots For Container Gardening
You might not be aware of many things as you shop online or in the stores for the right container gardening planters. To help you decide which option is right for you, take a look at these options before making a purchase.
Ceramic and clay pots
The wide variety of sizes, colors, patterns, and designs available in fine-textured, glazed clay containers can give gardeners a personal touch. They are sealed and kiln-fired, making them less porous and more resistant to the elements. They are strong and stable, so they won’t easily be knocked over. These planters should be stored in a dry, cool place. If they freeze, the moisture will cause them to crack. Large ceramic and clay pots are not only susceptible to cracking in cold temperatures but can also be very heavy and costly to transport.
Fabric Growing Bags
These are an excellent alternative to traditional pots. The breathable fabric structure allows for faster root growth, better drainage, efficient airflow, and self-pruning. These bags are easy to transport from one place to another and can be stored easily when they are not in use. There are many sizes of grow bags, but you should weigh the bulky bags if you plan on moving them. You should also consider the weight of large-sized bags. Some brands are simply made of sturdier materials and have more longevity and better drainage than others.
Grow food and companion plants in containers
These tips will help you make the most out of your garden, no matter how big or small.
Terracotta Pots
Terracotta pots, another type of clay pot, are easy to find, inexpensive, and attractive for gardeners. These pots are easy to find in craft shops, garden centers, and chain stores. They are easily identified by their brownish-red color and come in many sizes, from small to large. Unglazed terracotta pots allow for moisture to penetrate the walls of the pots. Terracotta pots can make it difficult to control the soil’s moisture. To retain water in the soil, you can seal clay pots by yourself. To protect your terracotta pots from freezing winters in cold regions, store them upside-down under shelter.
Concrete and Stone Planters
Concrete and stone planters are elegant and stately additions to gardens and entryways. These planters develop a beautiful patina over time. They can be bought in a variety of shapes and carvings that reflect the gardener’s taste. Because they can be heavy and cumbersome, these pots should only be used as a semi-permanent enhancement to your landscape. Concrete pots and stone pots might need to be layered with gravel at the base, if drainage holes are not present. Fiberglass Pots are a great alternative to stone, but without the weight. Fiberglass is a manufactured material that combines resin with glass fibers and molds into pot-like structures. Fiberglass can replicate the look of a clay or stone pot, but they are lighter and more durable. They can withstand all climates and don’t require special storage. They are affordable, but not the most eco-friendly.
Biodegradable Pots
A great choice for gardeners who intend to transplant seedlings, biodegradable pots make a lot of sense. You can choose from pressed paper or coconut husks, and you can plant them directly in the ground. Because they are easy to transplant, they make a great choice when growing vegetables. They are affordable, breathable, and eco-friendly. They are biodegradable, which means they can be broken down and returned to the soil over time. This is a positive for the environment. Coir pots are a bit stronger than their pressed-paper counterparts. These pots must be repurchased every gardening season. However, their low cost makes them a viable option.
Wood Container Gardening Planters
Wooden container gardening planters give a garden a natural look and feel. These are easy to construct if you have a hammer, nails, and a few other tools. You can make them from repurposed or untreated wood, or you can buy one that is already built. Wood is strong and can withstand all climates. Untreated wood is best for planting containers. This is especially important when growing edibles. The soils can be contaminated with toxic chemicals from pressure-treated lumber, which can lead to the release of harmful toxins into your plants and food supply. When purchasing a wood planter, be sure to consider the type of wood. Wood that has not been treated is more susceptible to rotting so garden container planters made from wood might be less durable than others. Planters made from cedar can increase the longevity of your plants.
Metal Planters
Metal planters are extremely durable. When choosing a metal planter, consider the pot’s weight. Cast iron can be heavy and difficult to move. Tin and aluminum pots are lighter and more practical. Make sure to drill holes in the bottom of your planter and add gravel to the bottom to allow soil to drain properly.
Plastic Garden Containers
Plastic garden containers are available in many sizes. Some can even have a metallic tone or look like stone, wood, and other materials. They are very user-friendly and versatile. They are visually appealing and allow plants to be moved in and out of sun and shade. It is important to empty them and keep them in cooler climates during winter. If plastic is not handled with care, it can crack or become brittle. Plastic that has been colored may also become discolored over time.
Container Gardening Planters
Container gardening can be a great way of adding variety and style to your garden. Before you plant, make sure your container has enough drainage holes. It doesn’t matter if you want to use different container gardening planters, or stick to a single type of material. It is important to make informed decisions about where you invest your money. Hopefully this list of pros and cons for each material will hopefully help you to make the right choice for your gardening needs!
